15 Minute Pools Podcast / Improve Your Business

It’s with a sad heart that we’re ending the 15 Minute Pools podcast. It turns out that in order to continue the podcast at the level we wanted, it would take a lot more work than we could do. It was a great ride and we hope you had as much fun listening as we did recording, and we would like you to continue exploring ways to improve your pool service. Lastly, we want to thank every listener and interviewee, for their time, interest, and feedback.  

In this episode we talk about why having a routine will make your service more efficient, by saving steps, and using less energy. In addition you may end up increasing your profits because you’re spending less time at each pool.

In this episode we talk about why we don’t vacuum (most) of our pools and how you, with a bit of planning may be able to reduce the number of pools that you do vacuum. Be sure to look at our Extra Off Tripper tip on our website show notes.

In this episode we talk about the glories of cleaning DE filters – one of our favorite things to do. We talk about the different ways that we clean them and some of pro’s and con’s of each way. Despite being a “dirty job,” if you follow our ideas you can find a method that will expedite your filter cleans.

In this episode we talk to John from Paramount Pool Systems about their main product, the in-floor pool cleaning systems, as well as Paramount's new UV and ozone systems. He explains some myths about in-floor systems and the positive aspects of learning about the way they work, the opportunities to explain and check the in-floor systems for the customer.

In this episode we talk about how we clean cartridge filters – some of the ways, some of the tools, and some of the methods we use. We also discuss other topics, like cleaning vs. replacing; how long it takes to clean larger cartridge filters as well as what are some of the easier filters to clean.

In this episode we talk to Richard and Ryan from Kona Labs about their wireless products that monitor the pool water level. Richard tells us about his background in math and science working with sensor technology that lead to developing his water level sensing and auto-fill products.

In this episode we talk about the basic additional tools you should have, the basic reasons why you need them, and the basics of how to use them if you want to be considered to be a pro and make more money.

One of recurring themes of our profession is that we don’t get paid enough, nor do we get enough credit (or respect) for what we do. In this episode we explain that a big part of the puzzle to getting paid more money is being perceived as being a pro, before you even start a job.

In this episode we talk to Carolyn from Service Industry News. She talks about her background and how she ended up taking over the paper from the previous publisher. We talk about the numbers of people in the pool service business and the various geographical areas that they cover. Carolyn would like more people to write letters/emails to them about what subjects are important to techs and what they would like to see in the paper. In addition they are putting a new focus on drowning prevention with a new section called “Not On My Watch.”   She also tells us how important it is to get the pricing, chemical, and business surveys are filled out and sent back to them so they have the data to publish.   As a bonus the surveys can be filled out on-line Listen to the rest of the interview, to find our more of what Carolyn says.

In this episode we talk to Joe from Speck Pumps about their products –variable speed pumps, EasyFit pump-plumbing systems and aquatic exercise (swim against the current) systems.  Speck is a 100 year old family owned business that makes a full line of above ground and in-ground pool pumps - all made in the USA. In addition to their single speed and variable speed pumps they make a professional’s only brand that is found in distribution called AquaTechnics which has extended warranties and is priced for service pros.  

In this episode, we talk about going to trade shows. When we recorded this, it’s getting to the end of the busy summer season and as we move into the fall, winter, and spring these are typically the times most shows are put on. We recommend that in order to get the most out of going to a trade show, you should approach it just like any other job – plan, prepare, and then do it. We cover quite a few of the things that we feel have made our trade show experiences go well, not only in planning, but questions to ask vendors, as well as the way you should act while you’re there.

In this episode we talk to Fred from PoolRx.  Fred tells us that PoolRx is a proprietary chemical additive in a small container that you can put into a skimmer or pump basket to kill algae.  Using it can help reduce the need for high amounts of chlorine thereby saving you money on your overall chemical bill.  Fred tells us, that it is composed of a special chelated set of minerals and that has been around since the early 90’s.  He also goes into detail about how it interacts with other pool chemicals and recommended run times after installing PoolRx.  Calculating the correct number of gallons in the pool and matching that with the proper PoolRx unit is important.  There is a sizing and installation chart on their website www.poolrx.com.  Be sure to click on the “pool professionals” section to login or create an account, so they can send you a password to access thier catalog.

In this episode we talk to Eric about his Piranha line of products –nets and poles as well as Stingray products for end users.  Technically known as The Smart Company, Eric talks about the features as well as the development cycle of his Piranha Power Poles and the new version of his Piranha net – all of which are rebuildable.  The key feature of his Piranha Power Pole is that has an easy to use, positive locking feature that snaps the pole in various positions as well as releases quickly to collapse back to original length.  His new Piranha II net has a special front bar that not only better secures the front of the plastic lip, but also allows the lip to maintains its edge as it wears down.

In this episode we discuss some of the ways that Gary and Maurice have used to determine how much to charge for pool service. We explore several different pricing and estimating concepts, as well as how to figure out your pricing by comparing the concepts of cost of business and cost of living.  We also talk about the pro’s and con’s of charging different amounts for different areas – sometimes referred to as zone pricing. We talk about Gary’s pricing philosophy of charging what you’re worth, not necessarily of what the customer is worth.  And why sometimes you may charge less if pools are very close together.

In this episode we talk to Monica from Hayward Products.  We discuss the education Hayward offers for pool techs at Hayward University, the extended warranty programs, and the various co-branding programs.  We also talk about Haywards new OmniLogic systems and 500K heaters.

In this episode we talk with Gabe from Hasa Pool Products a leading manufacturer of swimming pool chemicals. Gabe talks a bit about his background as well as that of Hasa, where they are located, as well as what products they make and distribute.  Gabe also helps Gary figure out where Muriatic Acid comes from.

We discuss the different approaches to scheduling and structuring your pool route, and how to fit repairs into your daily workload.   And is it important for the pool to be cleaned on the same day of the week or can you reschedule the service without informing them?  We also talk about sign-in sheets and billing, as well as the best billing method for cash flow.

This episode is Part 2 of our interview with Nick from Zodiac, he talks about the improved way to install the iAqualink, and the extensive available training, and customer support options that Zodiac provides.  He also gives some personal advice on taking care of customers, as well as yourself.  Check out his website in the show notes to learn more about the Jandy / Zodiac line of pool products.

This is Part 1 of our interview with Nick from Zodiac Pool Systems, where he discusses how he got into the pool business, his various experiences in taking care of pools as well as Zodiac's new pool heater, the JXi.  Check out his website in the show notes to learn more about the Jandy / Zodiac line of pool products.

The first of several episodes where we discuss one of the most important things you can do - connect with your customers.  This builds trust and confidence between you both - they begin to get comfortable with what you do and you get to understand not only their pool, but the why's and wherefore's of what they feel about the pool.  We talk about the things we do and have done to establish this relationship as well as explaining some of our past experiences.

Wayne discuss's some of the most common questions that come up in his classes.  Especially the difference between using OTO and DPD test methods.  Check out his website for learning about water testing and chemstry.

In this episode, Cheryl goes over the types of pool covers her company offers - not only for conserving water but also from a safety standpoint. Check out her website in the show notes for materials you can use to educate your customers on wawter conservation.

In this episode we review a California water use study and talk about the amount of water needed to maintain a customer's yard vs what is needed to keep your pool operating. 

In this episode we discuss why knowing about expenses, billing, and tracking your money is important.  How you can be a good worker, but still not make money.

In this episode, we discuss what we feel are the things you need to run a sucessful business -  the 15 Minute Pools pyramid of basics.   The philosophy, attitude, customer communication, and the actual work and how they all fit together so you can build a successful business.

In this first podcast we discuss what we're about, what we'd like explain, and how we hope to improve your business.